Did you know that the average amount of time young people spend in the foster care system in New York State is over 18 months? During these long months, many of those in foster care do not have natural supports systems in place. To fulfill this unmet need, EAC Network’s Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) act in the best interests of young people in foster care in Nassau and Suffolk counties as they transition into permanent housing.
CASA
In the season of giving, one of the best gifts you can give is your time. Not only will it help those in need, but your altruism will also make your own holidays brighter. If you are interested in local volunteer opportunities, consider EAC Network’s Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA). The New York Times’ opinion columnist Nicholas Kristof recently recommended volunteering with CASA in his annual “Holiday Gift Guide.”
EAC Network’s best-interest child advocacy took another step forward recently when Suffolk Family Court Judge Chris Ann Kelley administered the oath of service to new Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) volunteers who successfully completed a rigorous 30-hour training program. This more than doubles the Suffolk program size!
Last month, Abby Uzamere, Ariel Nelson, and I (of YDR Events) hosted our annual #Sunsational summer charity pool party at a private home in Dix Hills. #Sunsational is one of the two annual events that are part of our #Down4theCause party series. #Down4theCause is a fun, philanthropic party series in which…
Angel needed someone. Someone she felt comfortable with, who would take the time to help her express her feelings in her own way. Angel needed a CASA: a caring adult in a child’s life who helps reopen pathways away from darkness. (Trigger warning: suicide)
Children in the foster care system travel between guardians with little to no possessions and often carry their bare necessities in plastic trash bags. We unfortunately see the heartbreaking circumstances of these children in our Chance to Advance and Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) programs, which reduce risk factors for youth in foster care by providing mentors and educational activities. Every child deserves love and dignity. Luckily, they have real life heroes who are coming to their aid.